One of the most popular state parks in Arkansas is Petit Jean State Park and one of the most enduring Arkansas legends is the legend of Petit Jean.
This is a legend that appeals on so many levels. It is a story of love, of bravery, of tragedy and of heartbreak.
The Legend of Petit Jean
The legend of Petit Jean is inextricably tied to the mountain which rises from the Arkansas River Valley. But who was Petit Jean, this young person so beloved by Arkansans?
Learn more about Petit Jean Mountain State Park!
PinThe Journey Begins: A Disguise for Love
The tale begins in the early 1700’s, during the time that the French were exploring the New World.
A young French nobleman named Chavet planned to join an expedition to explore the Louisiana Territory, including what is now Arkansas. He had requested permission not only to explore a part of the Louisiana Territory, but also for a grant to claim part of the land. The King had granted Chavet’s approval.
His beloved fiancée, Adrienne Dumont, who was said to be a commoner, was heartbroken at the thought of being separated from her love for such a long time. She asked to accompany him, but he insisted that the journey would be much too perilous for a young woman.
Apparently Adrienne was made of sterner stuff than her fiancee knew. Adrienne disguised herself as a cabin boy, cutting her hair short and donning male clothing. She took on the alias “Jean”
Without anyone realizing her true identity, she boarded the ship alongside her lover, determined to stay by his side throughout the perilous journey.
Discovering Arkansas
As the expedition made its way down the Mississippi River and through the Arkansas wilderness, Adrienne carefully maintained her disguise.
Yes, according to the legend, no one, not even her fiancee, recognized that “Jean” was actually a young woman. (I have so many questions about this!)
Her cleverness and resilience won the respect of the crew, and they began to call the cabin boy by the nickname “Petit Jean” which means Little John in French.
They finally arrived in the stunning Arkansas River Valley and it is said that the natives living in the area invited the explorers to spend their summer on the mountain.
Finally, the time arrived for the expedition to carry on with their explorations. The group had descended the mountain and were preparing to leave.
Unfortunately, it was at this point that Petit Jean became gravely ill. The illness was marked by fever, convulsions, and delirium. It is said that it was an illness that the explorers didn’t recognize.
Due to her sickness, it was discovered that the cabin boy was actually a young woman.
Now that her identity was known she asked her fiancee to please bury her on the mountaintop overlooking the valley and the river below if she died.
A Tragic Ending
Despite the care she received, Petit Jean’s condition worsened and she did die.
The legend says that the natives helped a heartbroken Chavet carry her back up the mountain to her final resting spot.
A low mound of dirt marked by a rock formation with a sweeping view of the Arkansas River is said to be the gravesite of Petit Jean. Today Petit Jean’s grave is a popular stopping point for visitors to Petit Jean State Park.
PinPetit Jean State Park: A Living Legacy
Today, Petit Jean Mountain is home to Arkansas’ first state park, which bears the name of the brave young woman.
Petit Jean State Park offers visitors the chance to explore the beautiful landscapes on the mountaintop, including forests, waterfalls, and panoramic vistas.
Some say that the spirit of Petit Jean still watches over the mountain that she called home.
Is the Story True?
Is the story true? I would say that most Arkansans want it to be! Most of us have heard a variety of versions of the tale although the one I told is the most common.
However, there are several iterations of the story and some are much less romantic. What I do know is that Petit Jean (pronounced Petty Gene by locals – definitely not with a French accent) is a stunning place.
Not only that, but it seems to me that although Petit Jean’s story is one of loss, I think that it continues to captivate because it speaks to the themes of love and courage and adventure.
The Spirit of Petit Jean
As you stand on the heights of Petit Jean Mountain, overlooking the Arkansas River Valley, it’s easy to understand why her story has stood the test of time.
The wind, the rocks, and the rolling hills seem to carry whispers of Petit Jean’s love, a tale that has become woven into the fabric of Arkansas’ history.
I hope that you have enjoyed hearing about the one of the great legends of Arkansas: the legend of Petit Jean.
Here are some more things to know about Petit Jean Mountain State Park.
Thanks so much for stopping by!
